A. The department shall develop and update annually prior to August 30 a statewide substance abuse services plan that documents the extent of New Mexico’s substance abuse problem. The plan shall describe the effectiveness of existing services and shall document needs based on a statewide assessment that reflects local planning, concerns and priorities.

B. The department shall annually invite comment and review of the substance abuse services plan for a period of no less than thirty days prior to its publication.

C. The department shall make decisions concerning proposed substance abuse programs consistent with the priorities and service system concepts contained in the current statewide substance abuse services plan.